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PHOENIX (KSAZ) - The motorcade lead by DPS motorcycle officers rounded the corner shortly after 9 a.m., and the hearse followed.

Cindy McCain, the senator's children and family waited outside of the capitol plaza as members of the Arizona National Guard carried Senator John McCain's casket out.

"We're here to show our respect because we weren't able to do it yesterday... great man," one person said.

Even those who didn't know him were there to honor the senator and thank his family for all of the sacrifices.

"He was an amazing man, he did a lot for our state and our country and we're here in support for them, the whole family," another person said.

The air was thick with patriotism and sadness over the loss of an American hero to so many.

"It's pretty remarkable, what 15,000 people showed up yesterday to pay respect," one person said.

"The service was beautiful. Highly appropriate for a man who lived a life of character," said Sen. McCain's family friend, Helaine Levy. She said she was especially touched to see leaders from both sides of the aisle speaking, showing just how hard McCain worked to make a difference for all, with Republicans and Democrats.

"Vice President Biden's speech was very moving, mostly centered around their friendship and how they were able to come together, and put personalities aside, put ideologies aside, and kind of talk man to man about the issues they maybe differed on and come to consensus," said Levy.

"The service was beautiful. The speakers were really wonderful, and I think spoke to the essence of who John was," said Bob Heckman. A former Colleague of McCain, Heckman said he flew across the country to attend the memorial.

A short time after arriving at the capitol, the procession moved forward.